Radiology retains its spot among the three highest paid medical specialties, according to the annual Medscape Physician Compensation Report. Topping the list were orthopedists, cardiologists, radiologists, gastroenterologists, and urologists. A radiologist salary is even higher for those who choose a subspecialty like radiation oncology or ultrasonography. About 16% of radiologists earn $500,000 or more; about 8% earn $100,000 or less.

Do Men or Women Earn More?

According to Medscape, there's still a large pay gap between full-time male and female physicians, regardless of specialty. Overall, male physicians earn 30% more than their female counterparts. In radiology, however, that gap is 16.5%, less than in many other specialties.

Radiologist Compensation by Geographical Region

Radiologists in the southwest, with the highest compensation (a mean of $407,000 in 2012), earn 30% more ($94,000) than their colleagues in the north central region, with the lowest compensation (a mean of $313,000 in 2012).

The employment outlook for radiologists is bright. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says demand for all physicians, including radiologists, will grow 24 percent through 2020.

How to Become a Radiologist

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